Apple pledges $100 million to foster racial equity and justice

"I saw firsthand that the only thing that made lasting and durable change was people of good will putting aside comfort and safety to speak up, to march, to call for accountability".

Apple CEO Tim Cook announced on Thursday that the company would commit $100 million to fight for racial equality and justice across the globe.

Other moves will include programs to foster black application developers and new initiatives to increase diversity and inclusion within Apple, Cook said.

As citizens in countries around the world call for a reckoning on racial justice and equality, Apple on Friday quietly renamed its Apple Buchanan Street store in Scotland to a title not associated with the prominent local slave owner.

YouTube announced a $100 investment today as well to amplify black voices, and Sony Pictures unveiled the Sony Pictures Action initiative.

The initiative will be overseen by Lisa Jackson, Apple's VP of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives, who reports to Cook.

Cook noted, "Each of us has a role to play".

The company intends to expand on its existing partnerships with historically black schools, and will forge new partnerships with groups like the Equal Justice Initiative.

Jackson, too, commented on heading Apple's new racial justice initiative.

Cook pledged to make efforts toward racial justice and breaking down barriers to opportunity throughout society.

The company will also hold a developer and entrepreneur camp for promising entrepreneurs ahead of its Worldwide Developer Conference.

Apple will also boost the amount of spending it does for black-owned partners and increasing representation with companies the tech giant does business with.

Apple's initiatives will focus on representation, inclusion and accountability, Cook said. Apple has never shied away from tough conversations about tough topics. We will do our part, and I want to send our gratitude to everyone who is pushing needed changes forward in their communities.